My "A race" this summer was going to be the Ultra race Romania in August, a 250 km 6 day staged race but like all other races it had to be cancelled due to Covid-19. However the organisers are running a virtual even starting on 25th July for 25 days which means you could do 10 km a day and still receive the magnificent medal that would have been given to the finishers of the main event. My plan is to do it in 7 days and despite my foot playing up a bit, I'm still aiming for this target.
The run up to any event is important as you must build your training up but avoid over training or injuries. My last two weeks my training has been cut back due to my foot issue and now I've managed to get some treatment and a new pair of orthotics, the build is back on - but cautiously.
On Wednesday I did a gentle run with my new orthotics. I could feel different pressure points but they were fine, for a short run. Three bike rides this week is not usual for me but it's kept my fitness going while taking the strain off my foot. Another gently run on Friday and on Saturday I went out for 20 km run. Had the niggle not started I'd be up at 35/40 km by now but that's where I'm at. My foot felt fine during the run and I felt great. Heart rate was really behaving itself which is always good. I messaged my coach afterwards and it was agreed that today, Sunday, I'd ride rather than run to give my foot some rest and this was a good call as there were a few grumbles during the night with my foot.
The weather was not suitable for an outdoor ride with high winds and showers so it was back to Zwift and a good playlist to get me through an "hour of power" - it certainly has it's use although I'd rather be out on the roads riding through the countryside.
The next 19 days of training will determine what my "game plan" is for the virtual URR but I know it's going to be a tough race. I'm looking forward to my body aching (in a good way), hot baths (which won't be available in the race) and hitting my bed at night (also not available) desperate to sleep and waking in the morning refreshed and ready to go again. Racing over a prolonged period is physically and mentally draining and takes you to place in your mind you didn't know existed. It's one of the attractions of long distance running and I can't wait to toe the start line with my No 1 bib, an honour granted to me by the organisers. It's positive to have something to focus on in the near horizon, other than queuing to get into a pub for your first pint since March!
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